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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of fresh apples and the gooey sweetness of caramel. This dessert is not just a treat; it is a celebration of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust supporting a luscious cream cheese filling, studded with tart apples and topped with a decadent layer of caramel. Whether it's for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and luscious caramel with these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy nights at home, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust supporting a velvety filling and topped with a warm caramel drizzle. Learn how to create this seasonal treat step-by-step, complete with tips for presentation that will leave your guests raving. Enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cheesecake filling:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

For the caramel topping:

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

½ teaspoon sea salt (optional)

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

    Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

      Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the ¾ cup sugar and beat until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, mixing until entirely smooth.

        Add Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples into the cheesecake batter using a spatula.

          Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.

              Chill: Once cooled, place the cheesecake in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

                Prepare the Caramel Topping: If you’re using homemade caramel sauce, prepare it while the cheesecake is chilling. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake bars, allowing it to pool a bit on top. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and ground cinnamon for extra flavor, if desired.

                  Cut and Serve: When ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into bars and serve chilled.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      20 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time) | 16 bars